EP3755556B1 - Fastening module and filter system - Google Patents

Description

technical field

The invention relates to a fastening module for connecting a filter system to a curved connection surface with openings for the passage of a fluid, in particular an interior air filter system of a motor vehicle, and a filter system with a fastening module.

State of the art

From the EP 608 034 B1 a filter arrangement is known, in particular for a motor vehicle, having a base part with means for fastening to the vehicle and for delimiting at least one receiving chamber. The filter arrangement has at least one replaceable filter part, which is arranged in the receiving chamber. The filter part is dimensionally stable and the receiving chamber is accessible from the inflow side of the base part. In the US5302153 discloses a mounting module for connecting an air filter.

Disclosure of Invention

An object of the invention is to provide a mounting module by means of which a filter system can be sealed to openings in a domed land in a simple and reliable manner.

A further object of the invention is to provide a filter system which can be sealed in a simple and reliable manner to openings in a curved connection surface with such a fastening module.

A further object of the invention is to create a filter module for such a filter system, which can be sealed with such a fastening module in a simple and reliable manner to openings in a curved connection surface.

According to one aspect of the invention, the aforementioned object is achieved by a fastening module for connecting a filter system to a curved connection surface with openings for the passage of a fluid, comprising at least one connection housing which is intended to be fluidly connected to the filter system can be connected, and channels in the connection housing that correspond to the openings and run in rigid individual channel pieces, which can be connected to the openings in the connection surface with connection flanges, the rigid individual channel pieces being connected to one another and/or to the connection housing via connection areas.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the further object is achieved by a filter system with such a fastening module, comprising a filter housing, at least one filter element which is arranged in the filter housing and which separates a raw side from a clean side, an inlet area and an outlet area for filtering fluid, wherein the attachment module is fluidly connected to the inlet area or the outlet area.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the further object is achieved by a filter module, comprising a filter element in a housing part, wherein the filter module enables a volume flow to be divided essentially freely over its cross section, like a suction pipe.

Favorable configurations and advantages of the invention result from the further claims, the description and the drawing.

A fastening module for connecting a filter system to a curved connection surface with openings for the passage of a fluid is proposed, comprising at least one connection housing, which is intended to be fluidically connected to the filter system, and channels in the connection housing which correspond to the openings and run in rigid individual channel pieces Connection flanges can be connected to the openings in the connection surface. The rigid individual channel pieces are connected to one another and/or to the connection housing via flexible connection areas.

The component according to the invention is a fastening module for a filter system for connection to a curved connection surface, in particular for an interior air filter system in the vehicle. There is one very special focus on a finely separating filter system, for example a suspended matter filter system, in particular an EPA filter system (EPA = Efficient Particulate Air filter) or HEPA filter system (HEPA = High Efficiency Particulate Air filter). The filter system preferably serves to clean the air blown into the vehicle interior. The fastening module can advantageously be used to connect the clean side of the filter system to the vehicle interior.

HEPA filters are preferably depth filters and separate suspended particles from the air. In the EN 1822-3 standard from 2009, a distinction is made between filter classes E10-E12 (EPA) and H13-H14 (HEPA) as well as U15-U17 (ULPA, Ultra Low Particulate Air filter). For particles with a diameter of 0.1 µm-0.3 µm, an EPA filter of class E10 has an overall efficiency of more than 85%, an EPA filter of class E11 an overall efficiency of more than 95%. A class H13 HEPA filter has a total separation efficiency of more than 99.95% for these particles. A filter element is preferably used that has at least filter class E11 according to EN 1822-3 from 2009.

The fastening module is manufactured separately and is radially sealed relative to the filter housing. The fastening module has fluid ducts and is arranged between a connecting surface that is curved, preferably in all spatial directions, and a filter housing. The curved connection surface is, for example, a sheet metal surface. For better adaptation and sealing to the curved connection surface, the fastening module comprises rigid individual channel pieces which are flexibly connected to one another and is preferably sealed against the curved connection surface with an axial seal. In embodiments, the fastening module can have three or more individual channel pieces. The module is preferably sealed off from the air filter housing by means of radial sealing rings. The deflection of the curved connection surface is, for example, 0.1% to 15% of the length and/or width of the component, preferably 0.5% to 10% of the length and/or width of the component.

The special challenge here is that for the connection to the curved connection surface in the vehicle, there are several adjacent openings on the clean air side in the connection surface, which are sealed axially on the curved surface Need to become. The curved connection surface can be, for example, a deep-drawn sheet metal part of the vehicle body, for example a sheet metal support underneath the windshield of a vehicle.

In order to be able to better compensate for the tolerances between the curved connection surface and flanges of the fastening module, it is favorable if the individual sealing surfaces of the connection flanges of the fluid channels of the fastening module can be moved towards the connection surface. For this reason, the connection areas between the individual connection flanges of the ducts, which are connected to one another via the connection housing, are designed geometrically in such a way that they can be flexibly bent and/or twisted.

Conventional connection flanges of filter systems are rigid and usually have flat sealing surfaces. With the fastening module according to the invention for a filter system, the required tolerances can be met more easily, since each individual connection flange can be bent and/or torsionally adapted to the curved connection surface during assembly in all spatial directions and after connection to the curved connection surface in this shape remains.

A significant advantage of the fastening module according to the invention for a filter system is therefore compliance with the required manufacturing tolerances. The interaction of the individual connection flanges of the various ducts with each other and with the connection housing and in connection with the non-flat connection surface of the vehicle would place extremely high demands on the dimensional accuracy of the connection flanges with a conventional flange concept. The fact that the individual connection flanges can adapt to the curved connection surface of the vehicle independently of one another considerably reduces the requirements, for example, on the distortion of the connection flanges or the connection housing.

The flexibility of the mounting module connector housing is present before the mounting module is fully assembled in the vehicle. The flexibility serves to facilitate or enable a correct assembly process. after that Fastening module is fully assembled, there is a stable connection with the curved connection surface so that the connection housing is no longer flexible, but rigid overall, so that appropriate operating forces can be absorbed.

A further advantage of the solution according to the invention is that the flexibility of the fastening module can be present at one or more locations that are independent of one another.

In addition, the flexibility of the fastening module can take place in only one bending direction and/or in several or different bending directions. This can be done at one point on the fastening module or distributed over a number of points.

The fastening module according to the invention can advantageously have bending zones defined in this way, namely essentially at the connection points between the channels and the connection housing of the fastening module. The bending zones can be bent and/or twisted, since the connection housing has no stiffening elements or ribbing at these points. The bending zones can be achieved, for example, by deliberately reducing the wall thickness of the connection housing at the desired points.

The fastening module can advantageously be made of plastic and can be produced in an injection molding process.

The bending direction can advantageously lie in a plane through the connecting line of the connecting flanges. Such a direction of bending essentially offers flexibility in the axis of connection of the connection flanges, which can be advantageous when the filter system extends over the entire width of the vehicle and accordingly has to be connected over a large width, since the channels are distributed over the entire width.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the fastening module, an axial seal can be provided relative to the connection surface and/or a radial seal can be provided relative to the filter housing. The seal can preferably done by means of one or more lip seals. In the case of a lip seal, the sealing effect takes place without force, or at least with little force, through deformation of the sealing lip and not through compression of the seal.

Optionally, the seal can be made using one or more O-ring seals.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the fastening module, the connection areas can be designed to be bendable and/or torsionable in directions that are at an angle to one another, in particular in two directions that are perpendicular to one another. The fastening module according to the invention can be advantageously used in the case of a connection surface which is strongly curved in several directions lying at an angle to one another, in which case there is therefore a large-area three-dimensional curvature. A three-dimensional flexibility of the connection flanges of the ducts can be advantageously achieved by a corresponding design of the connection areas between the ducts and the connection housing.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the fastening module, a connection flange can have a peripheral seal. Each connecting flange can suitably have a peripheral elastomeric seal and in this way be connected and sealed individually to the corresponding opening in the curved connecting surface. As a result, a very reliable sealing of the channels to the connection surface can be achieved, which can provide a permanent seal even under greater operating loads.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the fastening module, the seal can be designed as an axial lip seal. Such a seal has been proven in the prior art to be reliable and durable with conventional rigid mating flanges. This type of seal can also be used advantageously for the fastening module according to the invention.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the fastening module, several connection flanges can have a common, circumferential seal. Conveniently several connecting flanges can also be combined into individual groups and surrounded by a common circumferential seal. As a result, the seal can be designed cost-effectively and a favorable seal can nevertheless be achieved even with a flexible fastening module. Connection flanges that lie on a surface part that has a similar curvature are expediently combined.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the fastening module, the connection housing can be arranged on a clean side of the filter system. The connection of the clean side of the filter system to the vehicle interior usually represents the critical part of the air duct. In this respect, the fastening module according to the invention can be used expediently to connect the air duct of the filtered air to the vehicle interior.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the fastening module, the connection areas can be designed as a hinge. Alternatively, the flexible connecting areas of the channels can also be achieved by means of hinges, for example in the form of film hinges, instead of by reducing the wall thickness. As a result, the individual connection flanges of the channels of the fastening module can be advantageously adapted to a curved connection surface of the vehicle and connected tightly.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the fastening module, the connection housing and/or channels and/or connecting areas can be made of plastic, in particular as an injection molded part. Plastics are materials that can be used cost-effectively for air filter systems. They can also be produced very flexibly in terms of shape using injection molding processes. Various materials such as polyamide (PA), polypropylene (PP) can be used as plastics, in non-reinforced or also in glass fiber reinforced form.

According to a further aspect, the invention relates to a filter system with a fastening module for connection to a curved connection surface.

The filter system comprises a filter housing, at least one filter element which is arranged in the filter housing and which separates a raw side from a clean side, and an inlet area for fluid to be filtered and an outlet area for filtered fluid. The fastening module is fluidically connected to the entry area or the exit area.

The fastening module comprises at least one connection housing, which is intended to be fluidically connected to the filter system, and one or more channels in the connection housing which correspond to the openings and which can be connected to the openings in the connection surface with connection flanges. The one or more channels are connected to one another and/or to the connection housing via flexible connection areas. The connection areas to the one or more channels are designed to be flexible and/or torsionable in at least one bending direction.

The filter system according to the invention is a filter system for connection to a curved connection surface, in particular for an interior air filter system in the vehicle. The focus here is very particularly on a finely separating filter system, for example a suspended matter filter system of the type of an EPA filter system or HEPA filter system. The filter system preferably serves to clean the air introduced into the vehicle interior. The fastening module can advantageously be used to connect the clean side of the filter system to the vehicle interior.

A significant advantage of the fastening module according to the invention for a filter system is compliance with the required manufacturing tolerances. The interaction of the individual connection flanges of the various channels of the fastening module with each other and with the connection housing and in connection with the non-flat connection surface of the vehicle would place extremely high demands on the dimensional accuracy of the connection flanges with a conventional flange concept. The fact that the individual connection flanges can be independently adapted to the curved connection surface of the vehicle, the Tolerance requirements, for example on the distortion of the connection flanges or the connection housing, are significantly reduced.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the fastening module can be arranged on a clean side of the filter system.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, an axial seal with respect to the connection surface and/or a radial seal with respect to the filter housing can be provided.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the filter system, at least one filter module can be provided with at least one housing part of the filter housing with at least one filter element in the housing part, wherein the filter module allows a suction pipe-like distribution of a volume flow over its cross section essentially freely sucking. Advantageously, the essentially free suction can take place via the cross section of the filter element, while on its outflow side the distribution of a volume flow in the manner of an intake pipe is made possible, in that the housing part has at least two outlet channels on the outflow side of the filter element, which are fluidically connected to channels running in individual channel pieces of the fastening module .

The fluid guide can advantageously be adapted to a fluid guide of the fastening module on the outflow side. In particular, the arrangement of the outlet channels of the housing part can be adapted to the individual channel pieces.

Advantageously, the first filter element can be designed with the first housing part as a filter module, in which the filter element is fixedly mounted in the housing part, for example glued in place. The filter module can advantageously be designed to be exchangeable.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the filter system, the first filter element can be arranged downstream of a second filter element in terms of flow, with the two filter elements each being arranged in separate housing parts of the filter housing could be. The first filter element can be a particle filter, in particular a particle filter element, while the second filter element can be designed as a pre-filter, for example for the absorption of gases. Advantageously, the second filter element can have a large cross-sectional area for fluid intake. The cross-sectional area is preferably matched to the inflow-side cross section of the first filter element.

The filter elements can advantageously form a filter module with their housing parts, which can be designed to be at least partially replaceable. Advantageously, the first filter element can be a lifetime component that does not have to be replaced or only rarely, while the second filter element can be replaced at regular intervals. To this end, it is favorable if the second filter element can be changed without changing the second housing part. Optionally, the entire filter module can also be exchangeable.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the filter system, the first housing part can be placed on the second housing part. This enables easy assembly and a stable connection of the housing parts. A hinge-like connection can advantageously be provided between the housing parts, which enables an axial compression of the second filter element. With this, a reliable sealing of the pre-filter can be achieved.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the filter system, the first housing part and the second housing part can be detachably connected to one another. This facilitates the exchange of filter elements, in particular the second filter element.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a filter module for a filter system is proposed, wherein the filter module has at least one housing part with a filter element in the housing part, wherein the filter module allows a suction tube-like distribution of a volume flow passing through the filter element essentially freely over its cross section.

A large intake cross section is advantageously available, while on the outflow side the Fluid can be divided into different partial flows. The filter element can have a simple geometry. The distribution of the volume flow in the manner of an intake manifold can advantageously be brought about by outlet channels in the housing part. The outlet channels can be designed and arranged according to predetermined connection geometries.

According to a favorable configuration of the filter module, the filter module can be designed to be essentially freely sucking in over its cross section and have at least two outlet channels in its housing part for the suction pipe-like distribution of a volume flow flowing through the filter element. The entire inflow-side cross section of the filter element can be used favorably for the suction. The filter element can be cuboid in a simple geometric shape. The filter element expediently has a filter bellows, the outer edges of which are sealed with a circumferential band.

Advantageously, the at least two outlet channels can be fluidically connectable as intended with channels running in corresponding individual channel pieces of the fastening module.

According to a favorable embodiment of the filter module, the housing part can be designed like a trough, so that on the outflow side of the filter element arranged therein, a clean-side air collection chamber can be designed. The filter element in the first housing part can advantageously close off the housing part on the inflow side. The trough-like structure of the housing part allows fluid to be sucked in through the filter element over a large area.

According to a favorable configuration of the filter module, the housing part can have at least two outlet channels on the outflow side, which can be fluidically connected to the air collection chamber. An arrangement of the outlet channels can advantageously be adapted to a clean-side connection area of the filter module. The filter element can have a simple geometry.

After a favorable configuration of the filter module, the housing part have at least three outlet channels on the outflow side, which can be fluidly connected to the air collection chamber. An arrangement of the outlet channels can advantageously be adapted to a clean-side connection area of the filter module. The filter element can have a simple geometry.

According to a favorable configuration of the filter module, the outlet channels can be arranged linearly next to one another along an axis.

According to a favorable configuration of the filter module, the filter element in the housing part can be sealed all around with respect to the air collection space on the clean side. This allows a secure sealing of the filter module.

According to a favorable configuration of the filter module, the housing part can have an inwardly protruding sealing flange area with a sealing surface for the tight connection of a further housing part with a filter element. The arrangement is compact and allows reliable sealing.

According to a favorable configuration of the filter module, the filter element can be designed as a particle filter element, in particular as an EPA filter element or HEPA filter element filter element. The filter element preferably has at least class E11 according to EN 1822-3 from 2009.

According to a favorable configuration of the filter module, at least two housing parts can be provided, with a further housing part with a further filter element adjoining the first housing part.

The inflow-side cross section of the further filter element can expediently be adapted to the inflow-side cross section of the first filter element. The filter module can therefore guide the fluid, for example air, through the housing parts in a substantially freely aspirating manner.

A filter module with a main filter and a pre-filter can advantageously be created. Preferably, the further housing part allows on its inflow side the largest possible inflow of the further filter element. The further filter element can be an absorption filter, for example.

According to a favorable configuration of the filter module, the housing parts can have one or more corresponding guides and/or guide elements for fastening the further housing part.

In this way, the other housing part can be easily assembled and disassembled. The guides can advantageously be used to ensure that the second housing part with the inserted second filter element can be mounted with an axial overhang on the first housing part and pressed axially onto a sealing surface of the first housing part. The axial compression enables a stable sealing of the interface between the first and second housing part.

A securing device can optionally be provided, for example one or more screws, with which the further housing part can be connected to the first housing part. A reliable, stable connection between the housing parts can be achieved even under heavy stress, for example due to vibrations, temperature changes and the like. Likewise, a distortion of the housing parts, which can preferably be made of plastic, can be compensated for by the safety device.

According to a favorable configuration of the filter module, a hinge-like connection can be formed between the first and the second housing part. The hinge-like connection allows an axial compression of the sealing element in the second housing part between the two housing parts.

A filter module with a main filter, in particular a particle filter, and a pre-filter can be created in a favorable manner, with simple and safe assembly and easy replacement of the main filter and pre-filter being possible. Preferably, the further housing part enables the further filter element to be flowed onto as large an area as possible on its inflow side. The further filter element can be an absorption filter, for example.

Brief description of the drawings

Further advantages result from the following description of the drawing. Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings.

Examples show:

1

a longitudinal section through a filter system with a mounting module according to an embodiment of the invention, which is connected to a curved pad;

2

an enlarged section of the filter system in 1 viewed obliquely from the contact side with the curved surface with a focus on a connection area of the fastening module;

3

an exploded view of the filter system in 1 ;

4

the fastening module of the filter system 1 in isometric view;

Fig.5

isometric view of the cambered pad of a vehicle;

6

the mounting module 1 in a plan view from the side of the connection flanges;

7

an enlarged section 4 with focus on a connection area between two channels;

8

a view of a part of a filter module of the filter system figure 1 with the filter element inserted in the housing part with a view of its inflow side;

9

the filter module figure 8 seen from its downstream side;

10

a perspective view of a second housing part for a second filter element of the filter module of FIG figure 1 ;

11

a perspective view of the second housing part figure 10 with inserted filter element.

Embodiments of the invention

In the figures, the same or similar components are denoted by the same reference symbols. The figures only show examples and are not to be understood as limiting.

figure 1 shows a longitudinal section through a filter system 100 with a fastening module 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, which is connected to a curved connection surface 200 . The filter system 100 is a filter system 100 in particular for an interior air filter system in the vehicle. The curved connecting surface 200 can represent, for example, a deep-drawn metal sheet of a part of the vehicle body. The curved connection surface 200 has openings 202 for the passage of the fluid. The fastening module 10 serves as a separate intermediate flange for connecting the filter system 100 to the curved connection surface 200 with the openings 202 for the passage of the fluid.

The filter system 100 includes a filter module 122 with a filter housing 110 in which at least one first filter element 126 is arranged in a first housing part 120 . In this exemplary embodiment, the filter module 122 shown comprises the first housing part 120 and a second housing part 140 in which a second filter element 146 is arranged. The second filter element 146 serves as a pre-filter for the first filter element 126. Preferably, at least the second filter element 146 can be exchangeable.

The filter module 122 separates a raw side 106 from a clean side 108 of the filter system 100. The first filter element 126, which forms the main filter, is preferably designed as a particulate filter element, for example as an EPA or HEPA filter element.

The second filter element 146 closer to the raw side 106 can be, for example, an adsorption filter element for the adsorption of gases, while the other filter element 126 can be used to separate particles.

The first housing part 120 forms a base body, which is covered by the second housing part 140, which is preferably designed as a lattice part at its entry area 102. This allows fluid to be sucked in practically over the entire inflow-side surface of the filter module 122. The filter bellows 128, 148 of both the first and the second filter element 126, 146 are advantageously matched to one another in such a way that, in particular, the second filter element 146 can have a cross-sectional area that is the same size or larger than the cross-sectional area of the first filter element 126 . The fluid on the raw side can reach the filter elements 126, 146 through the grid part (second housing part 140), while coarse foreign bodies, such as leaves and the like, are kept from the filter element 146 by the grid part.

The first filter element 126 is preferably arranged in a fixed manner in the first housing part 120 . The first filter element 126 can advantageously be glued to the first housing part 120, for example. The filter bellows 128 of the first filter element 126 is sealed at its edges with a circumferential strip 129 which protrudes on one side of the filter bellows 128, for example on the outflow side, and is glued into a corresponding circumferential groove 124 in the first housing part 120.

The second filter element 146 is preferably arranged in the second housing part 140 . The second filter element 146 can be loosely inserted into the second housing part 140 .

Both housing parts 120, 140 can be non-detachably or preferably detachably connected to one another. For example, the second housing part 140 can be plugged onto the first housing part 120 and guided into its end position with guide elements 142, as in FIGS Figures 8-11 is explained in more detail.

In the case of a detachable connection, the housing parts 120, 140 can be clipped, screwed or connected to one another in some other suitable manner. In the case of a non-detachable connection, the housing parts 120, 140 can be glued or welded to one another.

Optionally, the housing parts 120, 140 with the respective filter element 126, 146 can be exchanged individually when the filter bellows 128, 148 of the respective filter element 126, 146 is loaded to the maximum. Alternatively, provision can be made for replacing the filter module 122 with both housing parts 120, 140 together with the filter elements 126, 146 as a whole.

The filter system 100 has the inlet area 102 in the second housing part 140 for fluid to be filtered, ie for example air, and below the first filter element 126 an outlet area 104 for the filtered fluid. The fastening module 10 is fluidically connected to the outlet area 104 of the filter system 100 and is therefore arranged on the clean side 108 of the filter system 100 .

For this purpose, the first housing part 120 of the filter module 122 is sealed against the fastening module 10, in particular against rigid individual channel pieces 40 of the fastening module 10, in which channels 14 run, which lead the filtered fluid to the openings 202 of the connection surface 200.

When used as an air filter, the filtered air is directed into the interior of the vehicle via the mounting module 10 and the curved connection surface 200 .

Fastening module 10 comprises a connection housing 12, which is fluidically connected to filter system 100, preferably with a radial seal, and a plurality of channels 14 in connection housing 12, which correspond to openings 202 and run in rigid individual channel pieces 40, which are connected to connection flanges 16 with openings 202 in the pad 200 are connectable. A seal to the curved surface is preferably achieved with one or more axial seals 30.

Outlet channels 170 ( Figures 3 , 8th , 9 ) of the first housing part 120 in such a way that, on the outflow side of the filter element 126, at the outlet area 104, the volume flow can be divided like a suction tube, which can pass through the filter module 122 and its filter elements 126, 146, while the filter module 122 essentially flows over its entire cross-section at its inlet area 102 can suck.

The exit channels 170 ( Figures 3 , 8th , 9 ) of the first housing part 120 of the filter module 122 are preferably radially sealed against the individual channel pieces 40 with sealing elements 50, the individual channel pieces 40 fitting into the corresponding outlet channels 170 ( Figures 3 , 8th , 9 ) immerse and in each case a sealing element 50 surrounds an individual channel piece 40 in each case.

The rigid individual channel pieces 40 are connected to one another and to the connection housing 12 via flexible connection areas 18 . The connecting areas 18 to the individual channel pieces 40 are in at least one bending direction L ( figure 4 ) designed to be flexibly bendable and/or torsionable. The attachment module 10 is preferably already curved in the area of its connecting flanges 16 to match the curved surface.

A section of the area of the filter system 100 in the circle is shown in FIG figure 2 shown enlarged with a focus on a connection area 18 of the fastening module 10 viewed from the connection surface. shown.

The filter system 100 is fastened with its filter housing 110 via fastening domes and other fastening elements, in particular screwed.

Attachment points 204 can be seen on the underside of the curved connection surface 200, which faces away from the filter system 100.

Both the connection housing 12 and the channels 14 running in rigid individual channel pieces 40 and the flexible connection areas 18 of the fastening module 10 can expediently be made of plastic, in particular as an injection molded part. The filter housing 110 is usually designed with at least two housing parts 120, 140, which can be opened so that the filter elements 126, 146 can be replaced if necessary. Preferably, the first filter element 126 is replaced with its housing part 120, while the second filter element 146 can be replaced separately from its housing part 140.

Optionally, the filter housing 110 can also be designed in one piece.

In the longitudinal section shown, two adjacent channels 14 of the fastening module 10 running in rigid individual channel pieces 40 are sectioned and partially visible. The individual channel pieces 40 with the channels 14 each have connecting flanges 16 which are connected to the openings 202 of the curved connecting surface 200 with a sealing segment 20 in an axially sealing manner. The connecting area 18 can be seen between the channels 14, which is designed to be bendable and/or twistable according to the invention in order to enable the channels 14 to be adapted to an angular position of the openings 202 in such a way that the channels 14 to the openings 202 are sufficient for the given requirements can be connected fluid-tight.

figure 3 shows an exploded view of the filter system 100 in FIG figure 1 . The filter housing 110 is designed in two parts with the second housing part 140 and the first housing part 120. Outlet channels 170 are formed on the outlet side of the filter housing 110, which each form a plug-in connection with corresponding individual channel pieces 40 of the fastening module 10, whereby between the outlet channels 170 and the individual channel pieces 40 Sealing elements 50 are provided for a preferably radial seal. The sealing elements 50 can expediently be designed as lip seals, in which the sealing effect takes place without force or at least with little force by deformation of the sealing lip and not by compression of the seal. As described above, the volumetric flow that flows through the filter module 122 with the filter elements 126 , 146 is divided up in the manner of an intake manifold through the outlet channels 170 .

The fastening module 10 has connecting flanges 16 on its underside, which are sealed on the curved connecting surface 200 by means of an axial seal. In the embodiment shown, two closed sealing segments 20 are combined in a seal 30 for easier assembly, which are connected with a connecting piece. The sealing segments 20 can each be lip seals or optionally O-rings or other seals such as X-ring seals. The fastening module 10 is aligned and fastened with its centering mounts 24 on the centering pins 206 and screwed to the curved connection surface 200 at fastening points. The centering pins 206 can have a thread so that the filter module 122 with its filter housing 110 can be screwed onto it. For this purpose, the first housing part 120 of the filter module 122 has a fastening dome 137 on both sides on its underside, which is positioned over the lateral centering receptacles 24 and into which the centering pins 206 protrude.

Furthermore, 120 pins 119 are provided on the underside of the first housing part, which help to center the first housing part 120 on the fastening module 10 .

In the embodiment shown, the channels 14 of the fastening module 10 end at the curved connection surface 200. It can optionally be provided that the channels 14 protrude into the openings 202 of the curved connection surface 200. This allows separate fluid lines to be connected to the channels 14, for example. As a result, a separate sealing of the fastening module 10 against the curved connection surface 200 can be saved.

figure 4 shows the fastening module 10 figure 1 in isometric view. In this case, possible bending directions L of the connecting regions 18 are represented by curved arrows. Bending is possible in all spatial directions. The connection flanges 16 of the channels 14 of the fastening module 10 running in the individual channel pieces 40 can thus be adapted essentially in this one bending direction L to the openings 202 of the curved connection surface 200 . Alternatively, however, the connecting areas 18 can also run in directions that are inclined to one another, be designed to be bendable and/or torsionable in particular in two mutually perpendicular directions. The connection flanges 16 of the channels 14 of the fastening module 10 can thus be adapted very much more flexibly to the openings 202 of the curved connection surface 200 .

A sealing surface is provided on each connecting flange 16, for example a sealing groove 26, into which a sealing ring can be inserted.

Centering receptacles 24 can be seen on the edge of the fastening module 10, via which the fastening module 10 can be fixed by receiving corresponding centering pins 206 (see figure 5 ) can be centered on this connection surface 200 when connecting to the curved connection surface 200 . The centering pins 206 can have a thread.

On the interface surface of the fastening module 10 to the curved connection surface 200 , fastening domes 22 can also be seen, which serve to screw the fastening module 10 to the curved connection surface 200 . For example, two fastening domes 22 can be provided on each connecting flange 16 .

In figure 5 Illustrated is an isometric view of a vehicle's domed interface 200 . The curvature of the land 200 can be clearly seen in the isometric view. The openings 202 with their cross-sectional areas do not lie in one plane, so that the connection flanges 16 of channels 14 of a fastening module 10 must be able to be bent in relation to one another in order to be able to connect the connection flanges 16 tightly to the various openings 202 in each case. The connection flanges are expediently constructed in a curved manner and are thus already adapted to the shape of the curved connection surface 200 . By means of the flexible connection areas 18 of the fastening module 10, tolerance compensation can be carried out in a simple manner.

Attachment points 204 for screwing the attachment module 10 to the attachment surface 200 are arranged on the curved attachment surface 200 . On either side of the four openings 202 shown are centering pins 206 for centering of the fastening module 10 during assembly on the curved connection surface 200 present, which interact with the centering receptacles 24 of the fastening module 10 .

In figure 6 the mounting module 10 is off figure 1 shown in a plan view from the side of the connecting flanges 16 . The channels 14 open into the connecting flanges 16 which are surrounded all the way round by sealing segments 20 which are arranged in sealing grooves 26 . The connecting areas 18 between the individual rigid individual channel pieces 40 are partially differently pronounced. However, the connecting areas 18 are all designed to be bendable and/or torsionable, so that the connecting flanges 16 can be connected to the openings 202 of the curved connecting surface 200 in an adapted manner. Adjacent to the connecting flanges 16, the fastening domes 22 can be seen.

The sealing segment 20 can be embodied as a round cord seal, which is inserted in a sealing groove 26 running around the connecting flange 16 . The sealing segment 20 can be designed, for example, as an axial lip seal.

Alternatively, several connecting flanges 16 can also have a common, circumferential seal 30 ( figure 3 ). The seal 30 ( figure 3 ) can optionally be composed of two or more closed, interconnected sealing segments 20.

In figure 7 1 is an enlarged section of the fastening module 10. FIG figure 4 with a focus on a connection area 18 between two connecting flanges 16 to see. The connecting area 18 is designed as a web which can be bent in the bending directions L, as a result of which the channels 14 with their connecting flanges 16 can be inclined in these bending directions L. As a result, an adaptation to inclined openings 202 of the curved connection surface 200 can take place and the connection flanges 16 can be connected tightly to the openings 202 . The material thickness of the connection housing 12 can be reduced in the area of the connection areas 18 . This allows the web 18 to bend more easily. Alternatively, the connection area 18 can also be designed as a hinge, in particular as a film hinge, which also results in flexibility of the connection area 18 can be achieved. This simplifies handling and the production of the fastening module 10 .

the Figures 8 to 11 show the housing parts 120, 140 of the filter module 122 figure 1 .

figure 8 12 shows a view of the first housing part 120 of the housing 110 of the filter module 122 figure 1 with inserted filter element 126 with a view of its inflow side. In the filter module 122 according to the embodiment in figure 1 the inflow side is covered by the second filter element 146 in the second housing part 140 . figure 9 FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the portion of the filter module 122. FIG figure 8 seen from its downstream side. Optionally, depending on the field of application of the filter module 122, a second filter element 146 can be dispensed with. figure 10 shows a perspective view of a second housing part 140 without a filter element 146 from the outside, while figure 11 shows the second housing part 140 with filter element 146 with a view of its outflow side.

The filter element 126 is preferably designed as a particle filter element, in particular as an EPA or HEPA filter element.

The housing part 120 is preferably designed like a trough and, in this exemplary embodiment, has a rectangular receptacle 130 for the filter element 126, which can have a simple rectangular filter bellows 128, for example. Due to the trough-like structure of the housing part 120 , an air collection space 127 is formed in the housing part 120 on the clean side of the filter element 126 .

The receptacle 130 is surrounded by two opposite long sides 123,125 and two opposite narrow sides 117 which connect the long sides 123,125.

One side 123 of the receptacle 130 of the first housing part 120, preferably a long side, has a side wall which protrudes axially beyond the sealing surface 138. The edge of the opposite side 125 of the housing part 120 is aligned with the Sealing surface 138. The filter element 126 inserted into the receptacle 130 closes off the housing part 120 on the inflow side and separates the inflow side from the air collection space 127.

The filter bellows 128 is sealed with a circumferential band 129 . The encircling band 129 stands, as in figure 1 shown, to the clean side of the filter element 126 and is in a not visible in the figure circumferential groove 124 ( figure 1 ) of the housing part 120 glued in place. As a result, the filter element 126 is advantageously sealed circumferentially relative to the air collection space 127 on the clean side.

The receptacle 130 for the filter element 126 is also surrounded by a sealing surface 138 running around the sides 123 , 117 , 125 , 117 . The circumferential sealing surface 138 is formed on sealing flange areas that protrude inwards into the housing part 120 . This enables a tight connection of the further housing part 140 to the second filter element 146 ( figure 11 ).

Filter module 122 is preferably designed in such a way that it draws in almost freely, at least over its cross section in housing part 120 or over the cross section of filter element 126 arranged therein, in a suction tube-like distribution of the volume flow that passes through filter bellows 128 of filter element 126, corresponding to the through Single channel pieces 40 ( figure 1 , 3 ) defined suction openings of the connecting flanges 16 ( Figures 1 to 4 ) of the mounting module 10 allows. On the outflow side, the housing part 120 has at least two, preferably at least three, outlet channels 170 for the fluid in an arrangement like a suction tube. In this exemplary embodiment, the outlet channels 170 lie in one plane and are aligned with one another along an axis 111.

Arranged in the side wall of the side 123 are five concave receptacles 136 into which tongue-like projections 150 ( figures 10 , 11 ) can be pushed in horizontally. Receptacles 136 and projections 150 form a hinge-like connection.

Furthermore, guides 134 are arranged at both ends of the side 123, which protrude at right angles from the side wall 123 and run parallel to the narrow sides 117.

The guides 134 run alongside and above the sealing surface 138 of the first housing part 120.

On the opposite long side 125 of the housing part 120, three fastening domes 139, in particular screw domes, are optionally arranged, in which the second housing part 140 can be secured by means of screws. With this, a distortion of the two housing parts 120, 140 can be compensated.

Also provided on the opposite long side 125 of the housing part 120 are two latching elements 121, for example latching lugs, on which corresponding mating latching elements 141, for example latching hooks, of the second housing part 140 can be latched in the axial direction.

Furthermore, four centering elements 131 are formed between the two latching elements 121, the two middle ones being arranged adjacent to both sides of the middle one of the fastening domes 139. The centering elements 131 are designed as eyelets, for example, in order to receive corresponding counter-centering elements 151 of the second housing part 140, which are designed as pins, for example.

The second housing part 140 is in the figures 10 and 11 described in more detail. The housing part 140 has a grid 158 in the inlet area 102 so that fluid, for example air, can enter the housing part 140 and the filter element 146 arranged therein essentially unhindered. The filter element 146 can be placed loosely in a receptacle of the second housing part 140 and fixed there for assembly by slight compression.

The filter bellows 148 of the second filter element 146 is sealed at its edges with a band 149, with a highly compressible, for example foam-like band 149 preferably being provided at least on the long sides, which can be strongly compressed in the axial direction, while the same or a less compressible band can be provided. At least on the long sides, the band 149 has a projection 147 which, for example, has several can be millimeters. The overhang 147 can be the same size on the long sides and narrow sides.

Tongue-like projections 150 are arranged on a long side 145 of the housing part 140 and correspond to the receptacles 136 in the first housing part 120 .

On the opposite long side 144 are the mating latching elements 141, such as latching hooks, which correspond to the latching elements 121 of the first housing part 120, as well as the mating centering elements 151, such as pins, which correspond to the centering elements 131 of the first housing part 120, and the mating mounting bosses 139 of the first housing part 120 Fastening domes 159 arranged.

A guide element 142 is arranged on the narrow sides 143 of the second housing part 140, which is designed approximately L-shaped, for example, with a long leg and a short leg. The short legs point towards the housing part 140. The long legs of the guide are arranged outside an edge segment 157 of the narrow sides 143.

The interaction of the housing parts 120, 140 during assembly is summarized below Figures 8 to 11 explained.

Guides 132, 134 are provided on the two narrow sides 117 of the first housing part 120, which connect the protruding side wall of side 123 and the side 125 opposite thereto, which serve to push the second housing part 140 onto the first housing part 120. The second housing part 140 is pushed laterally onto the first housing part 120 , with the second housing part 140 being pushed in essentially horizontally with respect to the sealing surface 138 of the first housing part 120 .

The guide element 142 on both narrow sides 143 of the second housing part 140 comes in the assembly direction with its short leg in engagement with a guide surface of the first guide 132 when the second housing part 140 laterally on the first Housing part 120 is pushed. The first guide 132 runs alongside and below the sealing surface 138 and is curved convexly towards the sealing surface 138 .

The long leg of the respective guide element 142 has a length that ensures that when the second housing part 140 is pushed on, there is sufficient free space for the second filter element 146 above the sealing surface 138 and the first filter element 126 . The band 149 and the filter elements 126, 146 are thus adequately protected from damage when pushed on, despite the overhang 147.

On each of the narrow sides 143 of the second housing part 140, the leading edge segment 157 of the second housing part 140 engages with the second guide surface 134 shortly before the end position.

The guide surface of the first guide 132 ends at an end 133, with which the respective guide element 142 of the second housing part 140 can move downwards, away from the sealing surface 138.

In this state, the edge segments 157 of the first housing part 140 are inserted in the second guide 134 of the first housing part 120 and held axially. Furthermore, the projections 50 on the leading side 145 of the second housing part 140 are immersed and axially fixed in the concave receptacles 136 in the protruding side wall of the first housing part 120 .

The projections 150 and receptacles 136 form a hinge-like connection such that the second housing part 140 can be pressed on its side 144 opposite the hinge-like connection in the direction of the first housing part 120, with the centering elements 131 on the side 125 of the first housing part 120 and the counter-centering elements 151 engage in one another on the side 144 of the second housing part 140 until the latching elements 121 latch with the mating latching elements 141 . In the process, the band 149 of the second filter element 146 is pressed axially in such a way that a good seal is achieved between the second filter element 146 and the sealing surface 138 of the first housing part 120 . Then the second housing part 140 are screwed to the first housing part 120 by means of the respective fastening domes 139, 159.

In the operating state, the housing part 120 is arranged with its outlet channels 170 above the respective individual channel pieces 40 with the connecting flanges 16 . The filter module 122 can be attached via the first housing part 120 to the connection surface 200 ( figures 1 , 3 ) to be attached.

Claims (19)

1. Attachment module (10) for connecting a filter system (100) to a curved connecting surface (200) with openings (202) for the passage of a fluid,
   characterized by
   at least one connecting housing (12) which can be fluidically connected to the filter system (100) as intended and in which a plurality of channels (14) corresponding to the openings (202) and extending in rigid individual channel sections (40) are provided which can be connected to the openings (202) in the connecting surface (200) using connecting flanges (16), wherein the rigid individual channel sections (40) are connected to one another and/or to the connecting housing (12) using flexible connecting portions (18).
2. Attachment module according to claim 1, wherein the connecting portions (18) are designed to be bendable and/or torsionable in directions oblique to each other, in particular in two directions perpendicular to each other.
3. Attachment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a connecting flange (16) features a circumferential seal segment (20), in particular wherein the seal segment (20) is designed as axial lip seal.
4. Attachment module according to claim 3, wherein several connecting flanges (16) feature a common, circumferential seal (30), wherein at least two closed seal segments (20) are combined in one seal (30), in particular connected to a connecting piece.
5. Attachment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting portions (18) are configured as hinges.
6. Filter system (100) with an attachment module (10) for connection to a curved connecting surface (200), according to one of the preceding claims, comprising

   - a filter housing (110),

   - at least one filter element (126, 146) that is disposed in the filter housing (110), and which separates a raw side (106) from a clean side (108),

   - an inlet area (102) for fluid to be filtered and an outlet area (104) for filtered fluid,

   wherein the attachment module (10) is fluidically connected to the inlet area (102) or the outlet area (104).
7. Filter system according to claim 6, wherein the attachment module (10) is disposed on a clean side (108) of the filter system (100).
8. Filter system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the attachment module (10) features an axial sealing with respect to the connecting surface (200) and/or wherein the attachment module (10) features a radial sealing with respect to the filter housing (110).
9. Filter system according to one of the claims 6 to 8, comprising at least one filter module (122), with at least one housing component (120) of the filter housing (110) with at least one filter element (126) in the housing component (120), wherein the filter module (122) is provided with substantially free suction over its cross-section and a suction pipe-like division of a volume flow passing through the filter element (126) is made possible by at least two outlet channels (170) in the housing component (120), which are fluidically connected to channels (14) extending in individual channel sections (40) of the attachment module (10).
10. Filter system according to one of the claims 6 to 9, wherein the first filter element (126) is located fluidically downstream of a further filter element (146), wherein the two filter elements (126, 146) are preferably each disposed in separate housing components (120, 140) of the filter housing (110) which are in particular detachably interconnected.
11. Filter module (122) for a filter system (100) according to one of the claims 6 to 10, comprising at least one housing component (120) with a filter element (126) in the housing component (120), wherein the filter module (122) allows, substantially over its cross-section, a freely aspirating suction tube-like division of a volume flow passing through the filter element (126).
12. Filter module according to claim 11, wherein the housing component (120) features at least two outlet channels (170) for a suction pipe-like division of the volume flow.
13. Filter module according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the housing component (120) is trough-shaped so that a clean-sided air collecting space (127) on the outflow side of the filter element (126) is disposed therein.
14. Filter module according to claim 13, wherein the housing component (120) features at least two outlet channels (170) on the outflow side, which are fluidically connected to the air collecting space (127), wherein preferably the housing component (120) features at least three outlet channels (170) on the outflow side, which are fluidically connected to the air collecting space (127).
15. Filter module according to one of the claims 11 to 14, wherein the outlet channels (170) are linearly disposed adjacent to each other along an axis (111).
16. Filter module according to one of the claims 11 to 15, wherein the filter element (126) in the housing component (120) is circumferentially sealed with respect to the clean-sided air collecting space (126).
17. Filter module according to one of the claims 11 to 16, wherein the housing component (120) features an inwardly projecting sealing flange area with a sealing surface (138) for the sealed connection of a further housing component (140) with filter element (146).
18. Filter module according to one of the claims 11 to 17, wherein at least two housing components (120, 140) are provided, wherein a further housing component (140) with a further filter element (146) is connected to the housing component (120).
19. Filter module according to claim 18, wherein the housing components (120, 140) comprise one or more corresponding guides (132, 134) and/or guide elements (142) for fastening the further housing component (140).

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